If you have ADHD, you probably know the struggle of impulsive spending all too well. One minute you’re just browsing, and the next—you’re checking out with items you didn’t plan to buy. Dopamine hit achieved… but then comes the regret. Sound familiar?
ADHD brains crave stimulation and novelty, and spending can provide an instant dopamine boost. Add in difficulties with impulse control and emotional regulation, and it’s easy to see how impulse buys happen—whether it’s late-night online shopping, grabbing something flashy at the till, or overcommitting to hobbies you just discovered.
The phrase “all the gear but no idea” could have been invented for me. Not quite no idea but you get the picture.
In my youth it will have been handbags, then gadgets (I still love a gadget), then it was self improvement, books, courses, PDFs etc. It was only when I discovered my neuro-extraness in 2008 that I realised why I spent so much money on all of these things.
I think we all have our catnip category. Mine is still an e-course or a set of PDFs.
I read a social post yesterday about Schuh’s 365 day returns policy which is great for those of us who buy something and then forget about it until the 28 day return window is ended. It is still not a guarantee of actually returning it though.
A response to the post was someone saying that they have a returns pile but things tend to go from the returns pile to the Vinted pile.
Some ideas to help combat impulsive spending:
1️⃣ Pause & Reflect – Before making a purchase, take a breath and ask: Do I need this? Will I still want it in 24 hours? A simple delay can reduce impulse buys. If this is too difficult review your purchases after a week and a month and see how many of theme you regret.
2️⃣ Set Spending Rules – Try a “wishlist rule” where you add items to a list and revisit them later. If you still want them after a set period, they might be worth it!
3️⃣ Use Cash or Prepaid Cards – ADHD and credit cards don’t always mix well. Using cash or a limited spending account can add a physical boundary to impulsive purchases. Starling has spaces and Monzo has pots which you can use to separate money.
4️⃣ Unsubscribe & Unfollow – Brands want to trigger impulse buying. Unsubscribing from promo emails and unfollowing tempting accounts can reduce unnecessary spending triggers.
5️⃣ Accountability Buddy – Tell a trusted friend or partner about your financial goals. A quick “Do I really need this?” message can help ground you.
6️⃣ Budget for Fun – Completely cutting out fun purchases can backfire. Instead, set aside a “treat yourself” budget so you can enjoy spending without guilt or overspending.
What is your catnip when it comes to spending?
